I have been so blessed to have the opportunity to work with kids for several years now. Whether it is working in a toy store, teaching dance classes, or even just babysitting, they always have a one-liner to brighten your day. Here are some of the things I have learned from children, told through their words of wisdom.

1. It is important to be brutally honest.

“Ms. Ashley, do you have a boyfriend? Because if you don’t, you really should think about finding one somewhere…(she sighs). You definitely need one.” – Olivia, age 4

2. Always check that your facts are right.

“No, no, no! You have it all wrong! The Civil War was when Columbus taught the Indians table manners!!” – Julia, age 7

3. Life goes on.

“Ms. Ashley, you have to remember that we are all just flesh.” – Alexis, age 5

4. It is important to be realistic.

In response to a sarcastic comment I made: “Wait, so do you really not know what your last name is? How did you make it through high school?” – Claudia, age 10

5. Sincere compliments are always appreciated.

“Ms. Ashley, your face is so pretty. It reminds me of my dog. She’s a pug!!” – Mia, age 3

6. Always shave your legs.

“I reaalllly like your legs Ms. Ashley. They are nice and furry.” – Lily, age 6

7. Look for the positives in life.

Me: “What is your favorite flavor of ice cream?”

Ella (age 4): “Purple.”

Me: “What kind of flavor is purple?”

Ella: “The best kind!”

8. Don’t let the haters bring you down.

“Who matters?” – Allie, age 5

9. Life could be worse.

“Ms. Ashley, your butt is sooo much smaller than my mom’s.” – Sophie, age 7

10. Safety should be your top priority.

in regards to the faucet in a bathtub: “No, Ashley, this is the fire alarm. You have to use it every time there is a fire in the bathtub just in case.” – Cadence, age 3

11. It’s okay to be indecisive.

“I don’t care what I want!” – Alexandra, age 4

12. Dream Big.

“When I grow up, Ms. Ashley, I am going to be a professional skipper. I’m really good at it.” – Mireya, age 5

13. It is important to accept your shortcomings.

“Ashley, I like your Stegosaurus and that is a really nice tree, but you have to understand that those kinds of trees didn’t exist during the Jurassic period.” – Ryder, age 5

14. Work hard, play hard.

“Yeah my dad goes to work so that he can pay for me to go to the beach.” – Henry, age 5

“The soul is healed by being with children.”

-Fyodor Dostoyevsky